Not Quite Nirvana

September 15, 2012
Though she claims a skeptic's journey to nirvana in accepting the tenants of Buddhism conveyed by Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh, Neumann, who served as an editor for Nhat Hanh's works, eventually comes to appreciate seemingly more parallels than divergences between her life and the way of life Nhat Hanh suggests. The descendant of Jewish intellectuals, she grew up in a commune with lots of people and even a few goats. In conveying her quest for understanding, she confesses to being too busy to listen and making snap judgments, but then reveals the benefits of more mindful communication and relations. Neumann's book, both readable and enjoyable, suggests there are many ways to construct a rewarding life, but no matter how it's done, it's necessary to fully listen, be present in the moment, and withhold judgments. Not quite nirvana, but almost.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2012, American Library Association.)